Celery.....and we thought it was only good with peanut butter!!!

Celery contains a high level of calcium, magnesium, potassium & active compounds called phtalides, which have been found to lower blood pressure and promote a healthy circulatory system. Celery is best eaten raw & the juice is especially useful for overall good health. It's leaves, seeds & roots can all be eaten. The seeds are particularly rich in iron & vitamins and have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties.

In Ayurvedic remedies, celery seed is commonly used as a diuretic, since fluid retention aggravates high blood pressure and other problems such as gout, arthritis, pre-menstrual syndrome and congestive heart conditions. It is also said to help in recovering from the common cold, coughs, sinus congestion, respiratory infections, bronchitis & laryngitis.

~Caution should be taken as the celery seed could cause stomach upset or diarrhea, in which case discontinue use. Pregnant women should not take celery seed without seeing a medical professional because of its strong diuretic properties.~

Celery may help in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatic disorders. It stimulates the thyroid & pituitary glands. It is believed to clear uric acid from painful joints.

Raw celery can help reduce high blood pressure even tho it is high in sodium & to act as a tonic for the liver. You can use grated, raw celery as a poultice for swollen glands.

The juice or an infusion of the seeds may be drunk to alleviate conditions such as sciatica. The juice can also help the body adapt to extreme heat conditions as well.

Celery root claims to be an aphrodisiac.